BIRMINGHAM, Alabama – It's Monday, Aug. 4. Counting today, there are 50 days left in summer.

I say this because schools begin this week in a number of school systems across the state, including Jefferson County, Huntsville and next week in the state's largest district, Mobile County. Teachers have already reported in many districts.

So summer is over. Except it's not!

When I was kid school didn't start until after Labor Day. Of course, we didn't get out until June but June is nowhere nearly as hot as August.

Yes, the state has increased the number of school days but only to about a week longer since I was a kid in the Dark Ages. And yes, there seem to be more days off during the year now than when I was in alternative school, I mean school.

And yes, most of the rest of the world require more days in class than the United States.

So what's my gripe?

Well, there are 50 days LEFT IN SUMMER!

This just feels too early. Sure kids need time to refresh, get back in the saddle, and settle down. But summer is summer and you're a kid just once.